The afternoon sun hung low over Tokyo, casting a golden glow over the city as Ava and Ryan walked hand in hand up the ancient stone steps leading to the Tokyo Daijingu Shrine—one of the most famous love shrines in Japan. The gentle rustling of leaves, the soft murmur of visitors offering prayers, and the occasional chime of a shrine bell created an atmosphere of quiet serenity.
Ava had to admit, despite her initial skepticism, the place felt magical.
The vermilion torii gates framed the entrance, leading them through a stone pathway lined with cherry blossom trees, their petals swaying in the cool spring breeze. The air smelled of incense, fresh wood, and delicate floral undertones, and the rhythmic sound of a small water fountain trickled nearby.
Ryan, his fingers laced through hers, exhaled contentedly. "Okay, I'll admit—this is nice."
Ava smirked. "Nice? You, Mr. Skeptic, just admitted a shrine visit is nice?"
